The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Infantry) [then Second Lieutenant] John W. Brookings (ASN: 0-546478), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company I, 3d Battalion, 145th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division. Leading his platoon’s attack on an enemy-held ridge at Mount Pacawagan on 24 April 1945, Lieutenant Brookings advanced to within thirty yards of the crest of the ridge. Then, leaving his platoon as a base of fire, he personally crawled forward thirty yards to a position where he destroyed a hostile machine gun position. Later, he killed a group of the enemy who were occupying a cave and set fire to their ammunition and supplies. Then, Lieutenant Brookings and two riflemen crawled forward through enemy fire and brought a casualty to safety. Through is courageous actions Lieutenant Brookings personally killed five Japanese soldiers, destroyed two enemy machine guns, a large ammunition and supply cave, and by successfully securing the ridge with his platoon greatly expedited the advance of his battalion. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.